Provodnikov-Matthysse, Crawford-Dulorme, Chavez Jr.-FonFara Preview

If a fight is called something similar to Arturo Gatti and Micky Ward, it has a lot to live up to. When Brandon Rios and Mike Alvarado slugged it out in October of 2012, it seemed like we were going to get such a thing. While the fight was great for 7 rounds, it didn’t come close. Now this Saturday we have something that many are saying is Gatti-Ward, will it come close? HBO Boxing kicks off spring with an action-packed, split-site doubleheader featuring some of the most exciting fighters in the sport when HBO BOXING AFTER DARK: LUCAS MATTHYSSE VS. RUSLAN PROVODNIKOV AND TERENCE CRAWFORD VS. THOMAS DULORME is seen SATURDAY, APRIL 18 at 9:45 p.m. (live ET/tape-delayed PT) from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY.

In the main event of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXINGdoubleheader, Mexican superstar Chavez, Jr. (48-1-1, 32 KOs) meets dangerous brawler Andrzej Fonfara (26-3, 15 KOs) in a 12-round light heavyweight bout.

In the 10-round co-feature, top 10 ranked junior welterweight contender Amir Imam (16-0, 14 KOs) will aim to move one step closer to a world title opportunity when he makes his second start of 2015 against fellow power-puncher Walter Castillo (25-2, 18 KOs).